Nigeria Joins Forces with UN to Crush Mining Crime Wave

Nigeria is taking bold steps to tackle financial crimes in its solid minerals sector through a new partnership with the United Nations (UN).

Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake announced the collaboration with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) on June 30, 2025, signaling a major crackdown on illegal activities.

The initiative will boost Nigeria’s ability to track and prosecute financial crimes connected to mining operations, especially those funding conflicts or terrorism.

This move demonstrates the government’s determination to protect the country’s natural resources while strengthening national security.

During crucial talks in Abuja, UNODC representative Tom Parker praised Nigeria’s recent efforts to combat illegal mining.

The government’s newly formed Mining Marshals have already made significant arrests, forcing many operators to legalize their activities.

“We’re seeing real change as miners rush to comply with regulations,” Alake reported.

President Tinubu has taken the fight further by approving advanced satellite surveillance of mining sites nationwide.

This high-tech system will spot illegal operations instantly, allowing rapid response from security forces.

“This technology transforms how we monitor and protect our mineral wealth,” Alake explained.

The UNODC partnership will also help block illicit money flows from Nigeria’s mining sector.

By closing these financial loopholes, authorities aim to create a cleaner, more transparent industry that benefits the nation.

“With UN support, we’re building systems to properly manage these resources,” the minister stressed.

This collaboration marks a turning point in Nigeria’s battle against mining-related crimes.

Combining international expertise with cutting-edge technology gives the country powerful tools to secure its mineral sector.

The government remains committed to transforming this industry into an engine for economic growth.

Nigeria’s mineral-rich lands hold gold, tin, limestone and other valuable resources that could drive development.

However, illegal mining and financial crimes have long robbed the nation of these benefits.

The new measures aim to finally turn this situation around.

The UNODC brings global experience fighting organized crime, corruption and terrorism worldwide.

Its involvement provides crucial support as Nigeria works to clean up its mining sector and ensure resources benefit all citizens fairly.

Through this partnership, Nigeria is sending a clear message: the days of unchecked mining crimes are ending.

With stronger oversight and international cooperation, the country aims to build a minerals sector that fuels prosperity rather than funding criminals.

The coming months will test these new systems as authorities work to enforce the crackdown nationwide.

Observers say success could make Nigeria a model for other resource-rich nations struggling with similar challenges.

However, experts warn that lasting change will require sustained effort and political will to overcome deeply entrenched illegal networks.

As implementation begins, all eyes remain on whether these measures can deliver real results.

For now, the partnership represents Nigeria’s strongest attempt yet to take control of its mineral wealth and direct it toward national development goals.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook